Dog-Friendly Holidays Ayrshire

This charming, detached gatehouse is situated quietly within the beautiful grounds of the Gilmilnscroft Estate, with formal gardens and enchanted woods, rich in flora and fauna with lovely walks, and fields with its own resident sheep. The cottage has great views of the Ayrshire countryside to the Isle of Arran beyond and is a great place to observe sunsets.
New for summer 2019 is a fully refurbished summer house, for use of both properties. Located close to the quiet village of Sorn with easy access to the River Ayr Way, with over 40 miles of walks through one of the most interesting valleys in southern Scotland with a wide range of habitats and wildlife. Dumfries House, made famous by Prince Charles’ involvement, is located approximately 3 miles away, and is a major attraction in East Ayrshire, as is Auchinleck House, home to James Boswell, a similar distance away. Also close by is the wonderful Ayrshire Coastal Path, with over 100 miles along one of the finest panoramic coastlines. Inland, there are gardens and castles to visit, riding, racing, a choice of golf courses and several country parks, with Culzean Castle, 45 minutes away, (owned by the National Trust for Scotland) and being Ayrshire’s most popular tourist attraction, with a network of wooded trails passing along the beach. Day trips to Ireland can be taken from Cairnryan. The bustling cosmopolitan city of Glasgow is only a 45-minute drive and Edinburgh is 1½ hours, with good train links from Prestwick. Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park is approximately 1¼ hours away and the ferry links to the islands of Cumbrae, Bute and Arran are all close by. Visitors are welcome all year round, and during January and February, you can enjoy the snowdrops, snow, frost and crisp sunshine. From the 1st April to the 15th June, this is the time for the most reliable weather, with the spring bluebells, birdsong and the ornate gardens. September to November brings the autumn colour which is exceptional due to the prominence of the native beech trees. Beach 15 miles. Shop within 2 miles, pub and restaurant 1 mile.
Gilmilnscroft Gatehouse (UK5164) and The Old Stables (UK5695) can be booked together to accommodate up to 8 guests.

These historic cottages (refs SSAJ to SSAQ) are set within the stunning Blairquhan Castle Estate in a beautiful valley with the River Girvan winding through. Blairquhan Castle, a Regency era castle, is protected as a category A listed building and the grounds are included in the Inventory of Gardens and Designed Landscapes in Scotland, the national listing of significant gardens. Used as a location for the Oscar winning film The Queen, starring Helen Mirren, Blairquhan has also featured in other TV programmes.

The stables, designed by William Burn in 1820-24, are also of architectural interest and, along with the lodges on the estate, form the holiday accommodation. Blairquhan Bridge was also designed by William Burn; it is a single arch, stone, hump-back bridge, possibly 18th-century and B listed. The woods of Blairquhan are a major feature of landscape. Beautifully integrated into the 200 acres of parkland that make up the estate, the unique gardens at Blairquhan Castle were originally laid out back in 1816 and much of the landscaping still remains to this day, most notably the unique walled garden. The rising ground to the south allowed the landscapers to create an unusual three-walled perimeter. During its construction the main wall was built with flues installed so that it could be heated to protect the precious fruit trees during the colder Scottish months. A famous tree at Blairquhan is the ’Dool’ tree, a large sycamore sited on the lawn to the east of the house was used for execution by hanging after trial by the laird. With well-established woodlands, beautifully manicured lawns, an avenue of 18th-century lime trees and many other magnificent vistas, the estate creates a unique atmosphere and provides the ideal holiday surroundings to escape everyday life.

Nestled in the heart of Burns’ Country, the area is steeped in tradition and history. Fans of Burns will be able to visit many attractions including Burns Cottage, the Burns Memorial Museum and the Brig o’Doon - the bridge from the famous poem Tam o’Shanter. Blairquhan is within walking distance to the small Ayrshire village of Straiton, and a short drive from Kirkmichael and Maybole. The entire area is known for its gently rolling landscape and hills dotted with sheep and traversed by the winding River Girvan. On a clear day, Ailsa Craig can be seen in the distance.

Ayrshire is home to the Ayrshire Coastal Path, a 100-mile long coastal walk with one of the finest panoramic coastlines in the British Isles. Crowned with a superb backdrop of the ever-changing profile of the mountains of Arran across the Firth of Clyde, this coastline is steeped in history and teeming with wildlife, including red squirrels, deer, otters and seals; it is also a haven for bird watchers.

Inland, there are gardens and castles to visit and activities such as riding, racing and golf to enjoy. The many golf courses include the world famous Turnberry course which is close at hand. Culzean Castle (owned by the National Trust for Scotland) is spectacular and is Ayrshire’s most popular tourist attraction.

Day trips to Ireland can be taken from Cairnryan, and a short drive leads to Ayr, a traditional seaside town. Glasgow, Stirling and Edinburgh are perfect for a day out, as is Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park, with ferry links to the islands of Arran, Bute and Cumbrae all within easy reach. Beach 10 miles. Shop, pub and restaurant ½ mile.

This cosy ground floor apartment is situated only 100 yards from the promenade and beautiful sandy beach in the seaside town of Troon and is ideally located to explore the beauty of South West Scotland. Troon has a wide range of amenities including shopping, restaurants, recreational facilities, Promenade and Yacht Marina, and is home to the world famous Royal Troon golf course. For walkers, the Ayrshire coastal path is easily accessed with a fantastic panoramic coastline, boasting beautiful views over the sea and across to the mountains of Arran. Ayrshire offers many gardens and castles to visit, alongside activities such as riding, racing and golf, including the world famous Royal Troon and Turnberry courses, both close by.

Culzean Castle and Dumfries House are both spectacular and it is well worth booking a tour. The islands of Cumbrae, Arran and Bute are all easily reached for a day out, while day trips to Ireland can be taken from Cairnryan. There are very good rail links from Troon for a trip to the cities of Glasgow and Edinburgh. Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park is just under an hour’s drive away and is well worth a visit.

The Galloway Forest Park is just a short drive away and is Britain’s largest forest park, with three hundred square miles of wild beauty waiting to be explored. The park boasts tranquil valleys, rugged rock faces, forest, moorland, lochs and ancient woodland, filled with a huge diversity of wildlife including red and roe deer, wild goats and many birds of prey. The park has also been awarded the status of one of only four Dark Sky Parks in the western world and when the sun sets, enthusiasts come to wonder at the universe revealed above.

These two spacious, detached cottages, The Groom’s Cottage (ref UK31337) and The Brewers Cottage (ref UK12527) which is next to the owner’s home, are situated on a quiet country lane and both have their own private hot tub with shared use of tennis court and croquet lawn to enjoy after a day’s exploring. Nestled in the heart of Burns Country, the area is steeped in tradition and history. Fans of Burns will be able to visit many attractions including Burns Cottage, the Burns Memorial Museum and the Brig o’ Doon, the bridge from the famous poem Tam o’ Shanter.

Popular with walkers, the Ayrshire Coastal Path is close by with 100 miles of superb coastal walking to enjoy, with a superb backdrop of the ever-changing profile of the mountains of Arran across the Firth of Clyde. The River Ayr Way, a 40 miles source to sea walk, is also easily accessed. There are many gardens and castles to visit, and activities such as horse riding, racing and golf are available nearby. The world famous Turnberry golf course, with fantastic spa facilities and outdoor centre, and Royal Troon Golf Club are close by.

Culzean Castle National Trust and Dumfries House are spectacular and are among Ayrshire’s most popular tourist attractions. The Galloway Forest Park is easily accessed and is Britain’s largest forest park, with 300 square miles of wild beauty waiting to be explored. The park boasts tranquil valleys, rugged rock faces, forest, moorland, lochs, ancient woodland and a huge diversity of wildlife including red and roe deer, wild goats and many birds of prey. The park has also been awarded the status of one of only four Dark Sky Parks in the western world and when the sun sets, enthusiasts come to wonder at the universe revealed above. Day trips to Ireland can be taken from Cairnryan, and a short drive leads to Ayr, a traditional seaside town. Glasgow, Stirling and Edinburgh are perfect for a day out, as is Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park, with ferry links to the islands of Arran, Bute and Cumbrae all within easy reach. Beach 12 miles. Shop 2 miles, pub and restaurant 1½ miles.
The properties can be booked together to accommodate up to 10 guests.

Boasting spectacular views over Dunure Castle to the Firth of Clyde coast and across the sea to the Isle of Arran, this cosy cottage sits only yards from the beach and the picturesque fishing harbour at Dunure and is situated on the Ayrshire Coastal Path, 100 miles along one of the finest panoramic coastlines in the British Isles. Crowned with a superb backdrop of the ever-changing profile of the mountains of Arran across the Firth of Clyde, this coastline is steeped in history and teeming with wildlife, including red squirrels, deer, otters and seals and is a haven for bird watchers. Ayrshire offers a varying coastline with villages, beaches and rocky coves to explore. Inland there is walking, cycling, gardens and castles to visit, riding, fishing, racing and a choice of golf courses, including the world famous Turnberry. Culzean Castle Country Park (extending over 550 acres) has a network of wooded trails passing along the beach and the stunning Dumfries House is worth a visit. Ayrshire, also known as "Burns’ Country", is steeped in tradition and history. Visit Burns Cottage, The Burns Memorial Museum and the Brig o Doon, the bridge from the famous poem Tam o Shanter. The seaside towns of Ayr, Prestwick and Troon are all close by with beautiful sandy beaches. Day trips can be taken to Arran and Cumbrae and are well worth the effort. Beach 200 yards. Pub ¼ mile.

Set outside the charming Village of Darve, these two lovely properties The Hayloft (ref UK7384) and Chaff House (ref UK7385) are located in rural Ayrshire, providing a superb location for outdoor enthusiasts. The accommodation sits adjacent to and has direct off-road access to Whitelee Forest and Windfarm, the UKs largest Windfarm with more than 130 kms of trails to explore on foot, by cycle or by horse. Horse riding and interactive animal sessions with the resident goats, alpacas, donkey, tiny ponies, and other animals can be booked separately with the on-site owners.
Dumfries House, Dean Castle Country Park, and Ayrshire’s Number 1 tourist attraction Culzean Castle are popular days out. The Galloway Forest Park is only a 30-minute drive away and is Britain’s largest forest park with three hundred square miles of wild beauty waiting to be explored.
The park boasts tranquil valleys, rugged rock faces, forest, moorland, lochs and ancient woodland and a huge diversity of wildlife including red and roe Deer, wild goats, and many birds of prey.
The park has also been awarded the status of one of only four Dark Sky Parks in the western world and when the sun sets, enthusiasts come to wonder at the universe revealed above.
Dalmellington is home to the Scottish Dark Sky Observatory and is only a short drive from the properties.
The seaside towns of Ayr, Prestwick and Troon are all close by with beautiful sandy beaches and stunning views towards the Isle of Arran. Day trips can be taken to Arran and Cumbrae and are well worth the effort.
Ayrshire is home to the Ayrshire Coastal Path, a 100-mile-long coastal walk with one of the finest panoramic coastlines in the British Isles. Crowned with a superb backdrop of the ever-changing profile of the mountains of Arran across the Firth of Clyde, this coastline is steeped in history and teeming with wildlife, including red squirrels, deer, otters, and seals and is a haven for bird watchers.
Inland there are gardens and castles to visit, riding, racing and a choice of golf course.
The Hayloft can be booked together with Chaff House (UK7385) to accommodate up to 6 guests.

Originally a retreat, this semi-detached shorefront property offers spacious accommodation. It has a hot tub for six, enjoys fantastic views over the Firth of Clyde and offers the perfect venue for special occasions or large parties.

Situated on the Ayrshire coast only a short walk from the shore, it lies close to the bustling town of Largs with its shops, restaurants and promenade. It is ideally located to explore the islands of Cumbrae, Arran and the Isle of Bute. Ferries also run to Dunoon and the Cowal Peninsula, giving access to Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park.
Ayrshire offers a varying coastline with villages, beaches and rocky coves to explore, and is a perfect location for cyclists and walkers - Skelmorlie heralds the start of the Ayrshire Coastal Path, a 100-mile long coastal walk. Inland, there is walking, cycling, gardens and castles to visit, riding, fishing, racing and a choice of golf courses, including the world famous Turnberry. Culzean Castle Country Park, extending over 550 acres, has a network of wooded trails passing along the beach. Glasgow and Edinburgh are easily reached for a day trip, with rail links available from the town. Beach 100 yards. Shop 500 yards, pub 600 yards and restaurant 6 miles.
The Wee Nunnery can be booked together with The Old Nunnery (UK5250).

Surrounded by Ayrshire countryside and set on a working farm, this pet-friendly, large detached house is ideal for groups of up to 12 people and family get-togethers. The attractive accommodation is set over two stories and includes six bedrooms (4 en-suite and 2 dedicated bathrooms), large kitchen, sunroom and spacious comfortable living room with four sofas and plenty of extra seating – ideal for social gatherings. The games room can be found in the converted double garage and caters for all ages. One bedroom and a dedicated shower room is located on the ground floor, perfect for those who prefer not to use the stairs. The grounds offer up plenty of walks and unobstructed views across the mountains of Arran.
Despite Yonderton being in the open countryside, Ayr is only 15 minutes away, where you will find almost everything! This Victorian seaside town is steeped in history and has great eateries where you can sample a wide variety of locally grown produce. Ayrshire’s many golf courses are only minutes away with Trump Turnberry and Royal Troon being some of the top-rated courses in the world.
It truly is the gateway to the west of Scotland - with Glasgow only 50 minutes away, and trips to the Isle of Arran are possible with only a short drive to the ferry terminal. You can also see the Isle of Arran from the farm - offering up some of the best sunsets you will ever see. Ferry services go from Ardrossan, Gourock, and Wemyss to Arran, Argyll and Bute, Cumbrae and the Mull of Kintyre. The Ayrshire Coastal Path is a 100-mile long coastal walk with one of the finest panoramic coastlines in the British Isles. Crowned with a superb backdrop of the ever-changing profile of the mountains of Arran across the Firth of Clyde, this coastline is steeped in history and teeming with wildlife, including red squirrels, deer, otters and seals; it is also a haven for bird watchers. Mountain bikers will love a visit to Galloway Forest National Park.
Local amenities include an independently run pub, village shop and restaurant – all within 2 miles.
Yonderton House can be booked together with Yonderton McGill Cottage (ref UK11182) to accommodate up to 18 guests.

These two spacious, detached cottages, The Groom’s Cottage (ref UK31337) and The Brewers Cottage (ref UK12527) which is next to the owner’s home, are situated on a quiet country lane and both have their own private hot tub with shared use of tennis court and croquet lawn to enjoy after a day’s exploring. Nestled in the heart of Burns Country, the area is steeped in tradition and history. Fans of Burns will be able to visit many attractions including Burns Cottage, the Burns Memorial Museum and the Brig o’ Doon, the bridge from the famous poem Tam o’ Shanter.

Popular with walkers, the Ayrshire Coastal Path is close by with 100 miles of superb coastal walking to enjoy, with a superb backdrop of the ever-changing profile of the mountains of Arran across the Firth of Clyde. The River Ayr Way, a 40 miles source to sea walk, is also easily accessed. There are many gardens and castles to visit, and activities such as horse riding, racing and golf are available nearby. The world famous Turnberry golf course, with fantastic spa facilities and outdoor centre, and Royal Troon Golf Club are close by.

Culzean Castle National Trust and Dumfries House are spectacular and are among Ayrshire’s most popular tourist attractions. The Galloway Forest Park is easily accessed and is Britain’s largest forest park, with 300 square miles of wild beauty waiting to be explored. The park boasts tranquil valleys, rugged rock faces, forest, moorland, lochs, ancient woodland and a huge diversity of wildlife including red and roe deer, wild goats and many birds of prey. The park has also been awarded the status of one of only four Dark Sky Parks in the western world and when the sun sets, enthusiasts come to wonder at the universe revealed above. Day trips to Ireland can be taken from Cairnryan, and a short drive leads to Ayr, a traditional seaside town. Glasgow, Stirling and Edinburgh are perfect for a day out, as is Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park, with ferry links to the islands of Arran, Bute and Cumbrae all within easy reach. Beach 12 miles. Shop 2 miles, pub and restaurant 1½ miles.
The properties can be booked together to accommodate up to 10 guests.

Situated on the owners’ beautiful small estate, with river and woodland walks direct from the door, these two beautifully converted cottages were formerly part of the Victorian stables to the main house (named Grey Man and Blue Peter, after horses who lived in these stables). Set within extensive grounds, visitors also have access to the tennis court.

Auchendrane Stables are in the heart of Robert Burns country, close to the village of Alloway, and the area is steeped in tradition and history. In Alloway itself you will find Burns’ cottage, the Burns Memorial Museum and the Brig O’Doon - the bridge from the famous Tam o’ Shanter poem.

Ayrshire is home to the Ayrshire coastal path, a 100 mile long coastal walk with one of the finest panoramic coastlines in the British Isles and spectacular views across to Arran and up the Firth of Clyde. You may be lucky and spot deer, otters and seals and it is also a haven for birdwatchers.

Inland, there are gardens and castles to visit, and activities such as riding, racing and golf to enjoy. The many golf courses include the world famous Turnberry course ( 25 minutes away) and the Turnberry Hotel with its spa and outdoor centre. Attractions also include Culzean Castle (National Trust for Scotland) and Dumfries House, both with stunning gardens.

Day trips to Ireland can be taken from Cairnryan, while Glasgow, Stirling and Edinburgh are perfect for a day out, as is Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park. There are ferry links to the islands of Arran, Bute and Cumbrae. Ayr is 10-minutes away and is a traditional seaside town with its own racecourse.

Ayr has many wine bars and restaurants, 5 miles. Beaches 5 miles. Small local shop and restaurant ½ mile, pub 4 miles.

No 1 The Stables (UKC845) and No 2 The Stables (UKC844) can be booked together to accommodate up to 10 guests.